At Newport Polo, the thunder of hooves is the heartbeat of every match, and behind every great play stands an even greater partner, the polo pony. These extraordinary athletes are the true heroes of the sport, blending speed, agility, intelligence, and heart in a way that few other animals can match. While riders may hold the mallets, it is the horses who carry the game, anticipating every move, reading the play, and giving their all from the first throw-in to the final whistle.

Each season, during Newport’s International Polo Series, visiting teams from around the world arrive without their own horses, a long-standing tradition in Newport that is unique in all the world. Instead, our players generously lend their prized ponies to visiting athletes, allowing guests from every corner of the globe to compete on the world-class fields of Portsmouth. This act of sportsmanship and trust reflects the very best of the polo community, a bond of respect between riders and horses that transcends borders.

After each international match, the visiting team selects one horse as the Best Playing Pony, the mount that demonstrated exceptional athleticism, responsiveness, and heart throughout the game. These ponies not only showcase the finest traits of the breed, but also highlight the deep care, training, and partnership that Newport’s players dedicate to their equine teammates.

This season’s lineup of winners was nothing short of exceptional: 

Sassafras

Loaned to Morocco by Dan Keating
Grey Appendix Mare

A thundering white steed, Sassafras impressed players and spectators alike with her explosive speed and precise turns, handling the pace of the international match with grace and grit. Her performance exemplified the kind of athletic intelligence that defines the finest polo ponies and an intuitive understanding of both rider and game.

 Rayo

Loaned to Scotland, from Sergio Curro
Chestnut Argentine Mare

Rayo’s sharp instincts and powerful stride made him a clear favorite in the match against Scotland. His ability to read the field, change pace instantly, and maintain perfect balance under pressure marked him as a horse of exceptional quality and composure.

Ruleta

Loaned to Ireland by Julie DeAngelis
Bay Argentine Mare 

Ruleta showcased the ideal balance of speed and finesse. Her fluid movement and seamless communication with her rider displayed the years of training, trust, and conditioning that go into creating a top-level polo mount.

Kentucky

Loaned to Italy, from Sergio Curro
Chestnut American Thoroughbred Mare

Kentucky stood out for his strong acceleration and unwavering focus during the fast-paced match. His stamina and consistency allowed Italy to maintain offensive momentum throughout the game, earning him the distinction of Best Playing Pony.

Batman

Loaned to England, from Sergio Curro
Dark Bay Argentine Mare

Batman lived up to his heroic name, blending strength with agility and delivering an extraordinary performance. With his lightning-quick reactions and confident stride, he proved to be a formidable partner and a crowd favorite.

Turca

Loaned to Australia, from Sergio Curro
Bay American Thoroughbred  

Turca brought elegance and precision to the field, handling every turn and breakaway with grace. Her ability to maintain rhythm and power through every chukker reflected the kind of dedication and care that defines Newport Polo’s equine program.

 Rayo 

Loaned to Singapore, from Sergio Curro
Chestnut Argentine Mare

Rayo once again showcased his world-class form, earning his second Best Playing Pony award of the season. His consistency and athletic brilliance were undeniable, a testament to his exceptional breeding and training.

 Sassafras

Loaned to Jamaica by Dan Keating
Grey Appendix Mare 

Sassafras’s repeat win underscored her remarkable skill, adaptability, and reliability under pressure. She continues to set the standard for excellence among Newport’s polo ponies.

The Best Playing Pony tradition honors not only the horses themselves but also the owners who train, condition, and care for them with unwavering dedication. Newport Polo extends heartfelt thanks to Dan Keating, Sergio Curro and Julie DeAngelis for generously providing their world-class ponies to our visiting international teams. Their contributions allow athletes from across the globe to experience the thrill of Newport Polo at its finest, and they uphold one of the sport’s most meaningful traditions, honoring the beauty and power of these incredible horses with the world.

Polo ponies are unlike any other equine athletes. They must be as agile as jumpers, as fast as racehorses, and as disciplined as dressage mounts, yet still possess the unique instinct to play as part of a team. They read the field, anticipate competition, and respond to their rider’s slightest cues not from fear, but from trust. What makes a great polo pony isn’t just speed or strength, but heart – the drive to give everything for the team, stride after stride, chukker after chukker.

As the sun sets on another spectacular international season, we celebrate not only the champions who rode to victory but also the equine stars who made it possible. These ponies are the pride of Newport Polo and living symbols of the grace, spirit, and partnership that make our sport truly extraordinary.